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So, you want to go camping?... The yearly family adventure most children and parents dream and think about for months before the departing morning is, of course, one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences you can possibly share with your loved ones. On the other hand, your private adventure can easily turn into a week long nightmare if the necessary planning and preliminary forethought isn't undertaken. You need not account for every minute spent in the woods or at the lake front, but if you have an overview in mind of what to expect of your chosen location, and different courses of action to take in case of an unfortunate mishap or weather situation, then you can enjoy your time off regardless of what nature intends to throw at you.

More and more couples, families and even lone hikers and trekkers are taking to the woods these days. One of the first things to think about when planning a back country trip is the location you would like to visit and for several different reasons. If you have a family with small children, then the rustic and desolate Appalachian Mountains may not be the best choice for your excursion. However, there are, in most states, many recreation areas which provide running water, clean bathroom facilities, showers, and even washing machine availability. Check with your local Department of Natural Resources for a list or map of these State and County Parks and Campgrounds. Many have websites or color pamphlets which list each facilities' amenities and activities available. This can be very useful in determining the best place to take small children and seniors alike. Pets are usually welcome at these parks, but you may want to leave your 90 lb. paranoid Rotweiler at home or in the care of loved ones, or face constant harassment by other guests and, ultimately, Park Rangers. Nobody likes to hear your constantly barking dogs at home, let alone in the peaceful surroundings they have tried to escape to.
Another important factor in determining your vacation spot, especially with children, is to know exactly where and how far away the local hospitals and clinics are, for obvious reasons. If Tommy decides to ride his bike down that steep hill and slams into a Pine Tree, receiving a profusely bleeding compound fracture to the leg, it is crucial to know where to go for quick medical attention. Many other accidents can occur when out and about in the wilderness, which may guide your chosen location as well. These include bruises and sprains,

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